Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity (YLDS) Cohort I
Horn Center for Democracy
Quick Facts
A word from Eli, founder of Rise Africa Scholars
MSc Information Security — Unicaf Scholar
While you wait for a fully funded opportunity, don’t put your education on hold. I completed my MSc through Unicaf — studying online from Nairobi while working full-time. The tuition discount made it genuinely affordable, and the degree is from an accredited UK university.
If you’re serious about advancing your career now, I’d encourage you to explore it. I only recommend what I’ve used myself.
About This Scholarship
The Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity (YLDS) is a regional leadership programme that brings together 15 emerging youth leaders from across the Horn of Africa to strengthen youth participation in democratic governance and civic engagement. The inaugural cohort will take place in Addis Ababa from October 11-18, 2026, featuring intensive residential training, interactive workshops, peer learning, and mentorship opportunities.
What This Scholarship Covers
- Full programme costs covered
- Residential accommodation during training week
- Meals during the programme
- Access to regional expert-led workshops
- Continued mentorship and alumni network engagement
Who Can Apply
- 1 Must be a citizen of an IGAD member country (Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, or Uganda)
- 2 Must be between 18 and 35 years old
- 3 Must demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to democratic values
- 4 Must adhere to non-violent approaches to political discourse
- 5 Must have experience in civic engagement, youth leadership, community organizing, advocacy, or policy work